It is with a heavy heart that we post this information.  Due to funding cuts, as of December 31, 2009, Louisiana Youth Prevention Services will no longer exist. This has come as a shock to us, just as we are sure it comes as a shock to you.

The past 10 years of working across Louisiana with AMAZING students and adults has been a blessing and a priviledge.  The things that we have seen accomplished through YOUR efforts have been truly inspirational, from primary seatbelt laws, smoke-free air acts, to mandatory 21 ordinances, awesome Prom Style Shows, community services, there is just too much to name here...YOU make a difference and will continue to make a difference!  We have been honored to travel on the journey with you during our time together.

This of course means that all of the Spring events planned by and through LYP Services are cancelled.  These include: Louisiana Youth Summit on Underage Drinking, Taking Action!, Orange Ribbon Rally, Rock the Belt Activities and GOT.  Read on below for contact information with the previous sponsoring agencies to see if they are rescheduling any of these events.

Thanks to all of you for your support, inspiration and love throughout the years.  While we won't be here for you as a state office, know that we will be around, personally, if we can help any of you! 

Love & Peace,

DC & Janice

State Contacts:

Rock the Belt & Traffic Safety Issues:  Vickie Sims 

 Louisiana Highway Safety Commission

GOT, Orange Ribbon, Youth Summit on Underage Drinking:  Caren "Sam" Pouricau 

Office for Addictive Disorders

SPF Parish Youth Teams:   Linda McIntyre

Gov's Office of Safe & Drug Free 

These are the people on the state level that can help you stay connected with programming.

Also, Tobacco Free Living has a new Youth Program Coordinator this year:

Tobacco Free Living Youth Program Coordinator:  April Cabrera

Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living

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Feel free to contact Janice or DC at the LYP Services/LA SADD office if you have any questions. 

Again, Janice & I cannot express enough what an honor it has been to work with all of you over the many years we have been priviledged enough to do this work.  And YOUR work will continue...YOU will continue to make positive change throughout the great State of Louisiana and our nation!

DC